Cats are the second most popular house pet. According to the American Pet Products Association, in the United States alone, there are an estimated 90 million domesticated cats. Humans value cats for companionship. Compared to dogs, they’re easier to maintain, and they don’t need as much attention. Even though they require little maintenance, grooming is still essential to a cat’s health. You can do the basic grooming for your cat, such as regular baths, nail care, etc. Make sure also to have an appointment with professional groomers and vets now and then for a thorough groom and check-up. As a cat owner, it is your responsibility to give your feline friend the proper care that they need.
Here’s a guide in grooming your cat:
Skin and Fur Care
You can tell by looking at a cat’s skin and fur if they’re healthy or not. Cats generally clean themselves with their tongue, however, there are times where your cat can be really dirty and smelly from playing outside, that you have to give them a bath yourself. Be careful of not getting water in your cat’s ear when you bathe her. It’s best to put cotton in her ears to be safe. Also brush your cat’s fur regularly, once or twice a week will do, this will remove dirt, grease, and skin flakes. By regularly brushing and bathing your cat, you will also see if your cat has unwanted parasites on her body, and you can get this treated right away.
Nail Care
Cats like to scratch and climb on things, that’s in their nature. So it is important to also care for their nails and paws. This will also reduce risks of damaging your furniture, or your cat giving you skin punctures. There are a lot of nail clippers and trimmer available that would best do the job. Cats don’t really like for their nails to be cut or trimmed, but over time, they will get used to this and will barely resist when it’s time for cutting.
Oral Health
Cats have to have clean, sharp teeth and healthy gums. According to veterinarians, they have been seeing that dental disease is becoming a common problem with cats. It is important to regularly check your cat’s mouth and keep it clean with brushing and regular vet visits.
Ear Care
Your cat should have regular vet check-up, but between those check-ups, check your cat’s ear at least once a week for infection, wax or debris.